Jeep Grand Cherokee (2018-2024) Engine Valve Cover Gasket Replacement Guide
Leaking oil or smelling something burning? Your Grand Cherokee's valve cover gaskets might be the culprit.
- On 3.6L V6 engines, first confirm the leak isn't from the notorious oil filter housing before buying parts.
- Symptoms include a burning oil smell, visible leaks, and potential engine misfires if oil reaches the spark plugs.
- This is a good time to also replace spark plugs and the PCV valve to save on future labor costs.
- Choose a quality aftermarket brand like Fel-Pro or Victor Reinz for a reliable, long-lasting seal.
Is It Your Valve Cover Gasket or Something Else?
Before you replace your valve cover gaskets, it's important to correctly diagnose the leak, especially on the 3.6L V6 engine. A very common issue on this engine is a cracked oil filter housing, which sits in the valley between the cylinder heads. When it fails, oil pools in the valley and runs down the back of the engine, looking exactly like a valve cover gasket leak. Always use a flashlight to check the area around the oil filter 🎬 Watch this guide on replacing a cracked oil filter housing. for pooled oil before starting this repair.
Symptoms of a Failing Valve Cover Gasket
When the valve cover gaskets on your Grand Cherokee fail, the signs are usually obvious. Because the gaskets are at the very top of the engine, leaking oil drips down onto hotter components below.
- Burning Oil Smell: This is the most common symptom. Oil drips onto the hot exhaust manifolds and burns off, creating a distinct and unpleasant smell that you may notice inside or outside the vehicle.
- Visible Oil Leaks: You will see oil residue and grime built up on the side of the cylinder heads, just below the plastic valve covers. Over time, this can lead to drips on the ground.
- Oil in Spark Plug Wells: The gasket set includes seals for the spark plug tubes. When these fail, oil fills the tubes, which can cause the engine to misfire and the check engine light to come on. You'll discover this when you pull a spark plug and find it covered in oil.
- Low Engine Oil: A significant leak will cause your engine oil level to drop between oil changes, potentially triggering the low oil light.
Known Issues & TSBs for 3.6L V6
A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 09-012-22) was issued for 2018-2022 Grand Cherokees with the 3.6L engine for a knocking or pinging noise during acceleration. The cause is oil getting into the PCV system. The official repair involves replacing both valve cover gaskets and the PCV valve, among other steps. If you have this symptom, replacing the gaskets is part of the solution.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket Set
For a part like this, quality matters. A cheap, poorly made gasket can fail quickly, forcing you to do the job all over again. The brands available can be grouped into tiers based on general reputation among mechanics and Jeep owners.
Tier 1: Premium Aftermarket
These brands are often original equipment (OE) suppliers to many automakers and are known for high-quality materials that provide a long-lasting seal. They are excellent alternatives to the more expensive dealer part.
- Fel-Pro: A long-standing, trusted name in the gasket industry. Generally considered a go-to for reliability and proper fit.
- Victor Reinz / Elring: Both are reputable German brands, often considered OE-quality or better. Some mechanics prefer them over other aftermarket options for their pliable rubber and precise fit.
Tier 2: Jeep Specialist Brands
These brands focus specifically on Jeep vehicles. They are a solid choice and generally considered a good balance of price and quality, often better than generic store brands.
- Crown Automotive: Generally viewed as a higher-quality Jeep-specific brand. It's a reliable choice if a Mopar or Tier 1 part isn't available.
- Omix-Ada: Another Jeep specialist brand. Forum discussions often place it a small step below Crown in terms of consistent quality, but still a viable option.
| Brand | Tier | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fel-Pro | 1 | $45 - $65 | Industry standard, widely trusted. |
| Victor Gaskets / Reinz | 1 | $50 - $68 | Excellent quality, often OE for European makes. |
| Elring | 1 | $50 - $68 | Reputable OE supplier, similar to Victor Reinz. |
| Crown Automotive | 2 | $40 - $60 | Good reputation in the Jeep community. |
| Omix-Ada | 2 | $35 - $55 | Decent budget-friendly, Jeep-specific option. |
Pro Tip: Replace More Than Just the Gaskets
Since replacing the valve cover gaskets requires significant labor, especially on the 3.6L V6, it's smart to replace other parts at the same time. Consider replacing the spark plugs, spark plug tube seals (which come in the gasket kit), and the PCV valve. A faulty PCV valve can cause excessive crankcase pressure and make your new gaskets fail prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it okay to use an aftermarket valve cover gasket on my Grand Cherokee?
Yes, it is perfectly fine. High-quality aftermarket brands like Fel-Pro, Victor Reinz, and Elring often meet or exceed OEM specifications and can be more affordable. Jeep-specific brands like Crown are also a reliable choice.
Why did my mechanic recommend replacing the entire valve cover?
On some modern engines, valve covers are made of plastic. Over many heat cycles, they can warp or develop hairline cracks that are difficult to see. If the cover is warped, a new gasket won't seal properly. Some shops recommend replacing the cover as a precaution to guarantee the repair and avoid a comeback.
How long does it take to replace valve cover gaskets on a 2018-2024 Grand Cherokee?
For a professional, the job on a 3.6L V6 can take around 5 hours because the upper intake manifold has to be removed. 🎬 See a complete walkthrough of the 3.6L gasket replacement process. A DIYer should plan for a full day. The 5.7L HEMI V8 is generally easier, as access is more direct, and could take 2-4 hours.
🎬 Watch this video for 5.7L HEMI valve cover gasket replacement.Do I need to use RTV sealant with the new gaskets?
In most cases, a small dab of oil-resistant RTV sealant is required at specific points, typically where the engine block, cylinder head, and timing cover meet (the 'T-joints'). The gasket itself does not need to be coated. Always follow the instructions included with your gasket set or consult a service manual.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 05184595AE 04893804AB 04893805AB VS50625R VS50380
Set typically includes left and right valve cover gaskets, spark plug tube seals, and camshaft position sensor seals. Material is typically molded rubber.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is It Your Valve Cover Gasket or Something Else?
- Symptoms of a Failing Valve Cover Gasket
- Known Issues & TSBs for 3.6L V6
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket Set
- Tier 1: Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Jeep Specialist Brands
- Pro Tip: Replace More Than Just the Gaskets
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off